[Induction and regulation of the systemic inflammatory reaction]

The clinical and biological markers of the systemic inflammatory response are reviewed with a special emphasize on acute phase response. Stress and its neuro-endocrine consequences, metabolic changes and hepatic response are particularly detailed. The outcome of systemic inflammatory response is the net result of multiple factors since some agents produce a pro-inflammatory effect and others exert a natural anti-inflammatory influence. Neuro-endocrine involvement, metabolic and hepatic response provide the most effective physiological anti-inflammatory agents.